Algeria

Algeria Travel Guide

With the Mediterranean caressing its rugged coastline, Algeria
promises an escape from all things. Sun-touched cities tempt
visitors in. Snow-capped mountains hint at greater mysteries that
only first-hand experience can reveal. The journey begins in the
enchanting north and leads on to many treasures.

The capital, Algiers, projects its turbulent history through its
architecture. French-built boulevards come together with
socialist-era monuments and elegant apartments, weaving a textured
tale of destruction and rebirth. The Casbah citadel watches from
its hillside, as it's done for centuries. All told, culture,
sapphire seas, and green ravines draw visitors to the Bay of
Algiers, parting the sheer veil over Algeria's charm.

Those who venture on discover more. Laid-back Tlemcen provides a
change of pace from the capital. Surrounded by olive trees and
vineyards, it's a wonderful destination for leather and textile
shopping. Hikers can explore the lunar landscapes of the
northwestern mountain ranges. Timgad, Djemila and other beautifully
preserved Roman towns offer a glimpse into the area's past. Farther
south, the Saharan region extends over a sea of sand to mountains
that are as beautiful as they are unyielding. Their caverns contain
rock paintings that date back over 10, 000 years.

Unlike neighbouring Morocco, Algeria has yet to become an
established tourist destination. But, given its natural beauty,
history and rich culture, its standing may change. Much depends on
whether some fascinating parts of the country become safer. At
present, visitors should avoid travelling to rural areas within 31
miles (50km) of the border with Tunisia due to terrorist and
criminal activities. The same is true for regions within 155 miles
(250km) of the borders with Libya, Niger, Mali, and Mauritania.
Also, terrorist and criminal groups operate in parts of the Sahara
Desert. Travellers venturing there should travel by air rather than
overland.